The project was delivered in partnership with the Victorian Government, with $1 million contributed by the state, $830,000 from the City of Greater Geelong and $25,000 from the Belmont Lions Sports Club.

The upgrade includes a second netball court, new female‑friendly changerooms, an umpires’ room, a first aid room, an office and additional storage. These improvements will boost participation by increasing training and competition capacity and make the facilities more accessible for people of all ages, genders and abilities.

Winter Reserve is used year‑round by the Belmont Lions Sports Club and the East Belmont Cricket Club, both of which have seen strong growth in participation in recent years, particularly in junior and female programs. 

Alongside these upgrades, the reserve also features two AFL ovals in winter, a turf wicket oval and hard wicket ground in summer, cricket nets, playground equipment and shaded recreation areas.

State Member for Geelong Christine Couzens MP:

I would like to thank the Belmont Lions Club members, especially the netballers from the Belmont Lions Women's Netball Team who brought this issue to my attention and advocated strongly for these much-needed female friendly facilities.

Their passion, persistence, and commitment to creating better opportunities for women and girls helped drive this investment for the benefit of the local community.

The additional netball court will make a significant difference, allowing more games, more practice and more participation, meeting the demands of the growing sporting community.

Deakin Ward Councillor Andrew Katos:

We’re seeing more women and girls taking part in sport every year so it’s important our facilities keep pace.

These upgrades will help clubs grow their membership, retain players and provide a welcoming environment for everyone who uses Winter Reserve.

I look forward to seeing the Belmont Lions and East Belmont Cricket Club thrive in their new facilities.